Stewart International Airport

Stewart International Airport (SWF) is a "hidden gateway" to New York City for those wishing to avoid the hustle and endless queues of giant hubs like JFK or Newark. Located in the picturesque Hudson Valley, this airport offers travellers a unique combination of the tranquillity of a small terminal and convenient access to the "Big Apple". It is the ideal starting point for tourists planning to explore not only the metropolis but also the natural beauty of New York State.

Airport Features and Benefits

Stewart positions itself as an economical and comfortable alternative to the region's major airports. Here is why experienced travellers choose it:

• Stress-Free Experience: Thanks to the terminal's compact size, passing through security and passport control takes mere minutes. Crowds are rare here, allowing you to begin your journey in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Convenient Transfer to New York: The specialized Stewart Airport Express bus (operated by Coach USA) is synchronized with flight arrival schedules and takes passengers directly to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in central Manhattan. The journey takes about 90 minutes.
• Gateway to the Hudson Valley: The airport is in close proximity to popular tourist spots, such as the famous Woodbury Common Premium Outlets (just a 20-minute drive away) and LEGOLAND New York theme park.
• Savings: Parking here is generally significantly cheaper than at other airports in the New York metropolitan area, making it a cost-effective choice for those planning to rent a car.

• Official Website: swf.panynj.gov
• Information Desk Phone: +1 845-838-8200
• Airport Address: 1180 First St, New Windsor, NY 12553, USA
• Email and Support: For enquiries, you can use the address airportcustomercare@panynj.gov or the official feedback form on the PANYNJ management company website.
• Social Media: You can follow news on the official pages on Facebook and X (Twitter).
• Lost & Found:
  — If items are left on the plane: you must contact your airline.
  — If items are forgotten in the terminal, parking lot, or security checkpoint (TSA): +1 845-838-8200.

Getting to the Airport and Parking

Although Stewart International Airport is located approximately 97 km north of Manhattan, transport connections to New York and the surrounding areas are excellent. The journey may take a little longer than to city airports, but it often proves to be calmer and more scenic.

Here are the main ways to get to or from the terminal:

1. Express Bus (Most Convenient Option)

For most tourists heading to New York, the best choice is the Stewart Airport Express (operated by Coach USA). This is a direct bus route connecting the airport to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in central Manhattan (42nd Street).

• Schedule: The bus schedule is synchronized with the arrival of major airline flights. Buses usually depart 40–50 minutes after the plane lands, giving plenty of time to collect luggage.
• Travel Time: About 90 minutes (depending on traffic).
• Cost: A one-way ticket costs approximately $20–$25. Tickets can be purchased online or from the driver.

2. Train (Scenic Route)

If you wish to enjoy views of the Hudson River, you can use the Metro-North Railroad (Hudson Line).

• The nearest major station is Beacon Station. It is located on the other side of the river.
• From Beacon Station, the airport can be reached by taxi or the Newburgh-Beacon Link shuttle.
• The train journey from Grand Central Terminal in New York to Beacon Station takes about 80–90 minutes, plus 20 minutes for the transfer to the airport.

3. Taxis and Transfers

Taxis are always available in the arrival zone. A trip to New York by taxi or via services like Uber and Lyft will cost significantly more than the bus — often from $150 to $200 and above, depending on the car class and time of day. This option is justified if you are travelling in a large group with a lot of luggage or going to nearby towns in the Hudson Valley rather than New York City itself.

4. Car Rental

Counters for well-known rental companies are located right in the terminal (opposite the baggage claim area): Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, and National. The airport is located at the intersection of two major highways — I-84 and I-87, making it an ideal starting point for a road trip across the Northeastern USA.

5. Parking

One of the main advantages of Stewart Airport is the affordable parking rates compared to other hubs in the region.

• Parking is located directly opposite the terminal; shuttles are not required — everything is within walking distance.
• The cost of long-term parking is usually about $10–$12 per day (prices may change, we recommend checking before departure).
• The first 15 minutes of parking are typically free (for dropping off and picking up passengers).

Alternative Airports in the Region

If you are still choosing your arrival point, it is worth considering the location of other air hubs. For example, LaGuardia Airport is only 82 km from Stewart but much closer to the centre of Queens and Manhattan. Another popular hub is Newark Liberty International Airport, located in the neighbouring state of New Jersey (approximately 89 km from Stewart), which offers a huge number of international flights.

For business aviation or regional flights, Westchester County Airport (about 58 km from Stewart) or the smaller Teterboro Airport (72 km), which serves private flights, are sometimes used.

Terminals: Structure and Navigation

The main feature of Stewart International Airport (SWF) is its exceptional compactness. Unlike the confusing labyrinths of Kennedy (JFK) or Newark (EWR), there is only one passenger terminal here. This two-storey building is designed so that the path from the entrance door to the boarding gate is as short and intuitive as possible.

Thanks to this structure, the risk of getting lost here is practically zero. There is no need to use trains or shuttles to move between sectors — everything is within walking distance under one roof.

Airport Layout by Levels

The terminal is divided into functional zones located on two levels. Navigation is simple: clear signs in English are installed everywhere.

• Ground Floor (Main Level): This is the main public access zone. Airline check-in counters (Ticketing), the arrival and baggage claim area (Baggage Claim), and car rental counters are located here. Customs control for international flights and the exit to taxi stands and the express bus are also situated here.
• First Floor (Concourse Level): Passengers go up here after check-in. The single security checkpoint (TSA Checkpoint) is located here, leading to the "clean zone" (Airside) and the boarding gates.

Departure and Arrival Zones

Passenger flow organization at Stewart is highly optimized:

Departure:
The process begins on the ground floor at the check-in counters. After dropping off luggage, passengers proceed via escalator or lift to the first floor for security screening. Beyond the control zone lies a common waiting hall with boarding gates (Gates 1–8). Since there are few gates, they are all located close to each other.

Arrival:
Domestic flight passengers go straight down to the baggage claim hall. For international flights (e.g., from Iceland or Europe), passage through the customs and border control zone (FIS — Federal Inspection Services), located in the terminal extension, is provided. After completing formalities, you immediately enter the general meeting area.

Terminal Features and Services

Despite its modest size, the terminal is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait, although the range of services here is more modest than in mega-hubs.

• Dining and Shops: In the "clean zone" (after security), there are several food outlets where you can have sandwiches, coffee, or buy snacks. A newsstand with souvenirs and travel goods is also open. Tip: There are no full-service fine dining restaurants here, so if you are used to a substantial meal before a flight, it is better to do so before arriving at the airport.
• Wi-Fi and Charging: Free wireless internet is available throughout the terminal. Charging stations for mobile devices are provided in the waiting lounges.
• Amenities: The terminal has Service Animal Relief Areas (Pet Relief Areas) and nursing rooms.

Speed of Procedures

One of the main advantages of SWF is time-saving. There are practically no queues here typical of major New York airports.

• Check-in: Usually takes 10–15 minutes.
• Security (TSA): On normal days, passing through security control takes from 5 to 15 minutes. However, during periods when several international flights depart consecutively, the time may increase.
• Time Recommendation: Airlines recommend arriving at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one, but experienced travellers often note that all procedures at Stewart are faster. Nevertheless, it is better to have a time buffer in case of unforeseen circumstances.

History: From Cornfield to International Gateway

The history of Stewart Airport (SWF) is a fascinating journey of transforming private land into a strategic military facility, and then into a modern passenger hub. Unlike many other airports built immediately for commercial flights, Stewart has a "military bearing" and several pages of history of national importance to the USA.

It all began in 1930, when Archie Stewart, a descendant of a prominent local family, donated 220 acres of land to the city of Newburgh to create an airfield. The family set one condition: the airport must bear the name of their ancestor, Captain Lachlan Stewart. The official opening took place in 1934, and initially, it was a modest municipal airfield.

The Era of Military Aviation and "Wings of West Point"

In the late 1930s, with the approach of World War II, the airport's significance increased sharply. Its proximity to the famous US Military Academy at West Point determined its fate for the following decades.

In 1939, a school for training cadets in flying was founded here. Soon the government bought the land, and the facility turned into a full-fledged airbase, Stewart Air Force Base. For many years, the airport was called the "Wings of West Point". During the Cold War, the base played a key role in the region's air defence system.

Return of Hostages: The Historic Moment of 1981

One of the most emotional events in the airport's history occurred on 25 January 1981. It was here that the "Freedom One" aircraft landed, bringing home 52 American diplomats and citizens who had been held hostage in Iran for 444 days.

Stewart became the first place on American soil where the released hostages stepped foot. Their touching reunion with families took place here before they were transported to the West Point hospital. This event forever inscribed the airport's name in the textbooks of modern US history.

Transformation into a Civil Hub and the Arrival of Port Authority

In 1970, the military base was deactivated, and a long process of transferring the airport for civil needs began. Over the years, it was managed by state transport authorities, and Stewart even became the first privatized commercial airport in the USA (an experiment in 2000).

A key stage in modern history began in 2007, when management passed to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ). This marked the beginning of large-scale investments:

• Runway Reconstruction: A complete modernization of the pavement was carried out.
• Terminal Expansion: In 2020, a new terminal expansion worth $37 million was completed, significantly increasing the capacity of the international arrivals zone.
• Rebranding: In 2018, the airport officially changed its marketing name to New York Stewart International Airport to emphasize its proximity to New York and attract foreign tourists.

Interesting Facts and Records

Even being a small airport, Stewart possesses characteristics that major hubs might envy:

• Space Connection: The airport's runway is almost 3.6 km (11,817 feet) long. It is so long and durable that it was officially approved by NASA as one of the emergency landing sites for the Space Shuttle (in case they could not land in Florida or California).
• Unity with Nature: The airport is located in the centre of the scenic Hudson Valley, and during its expansion, special attention was paid to preserving the local landscape. This is one of the few airports in the region where the terminal windows offer views of wooded hills, not just concrete fields.
• Cargo Giant: Besides passenger transport, Stewart is an important cargo hub. Major logistics operators (including FedEx and UPS) are based here, valuing the absence of congestion in the sky and on the ground compared to JFK.

Services and Amenities in the Terminal

Passengers should note that Stewart International Airport (SWF) is a small regional hub. You will not find luxury shopping galleries or spa centres typical of giant aviation hubs here. However, a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for your flight is present, and the compactness of the terminal makes access to them as quick as possible.

Restaurants and Shops

The choice of food and retail outlets in the airport is limited but sufficient for a snack before departure.

• Dining: Cafés operate in the terminal, offering coffee, pastries, sandwiches, salads, and soft drinks. The main dining area is located after passing security. This is a convenient place for a quick breakfast or lunch, but for a full "fine dining" dinner, it is better to choose a restaurant in the city before arriving at the airport.
• Shops: Newsstands are available where you can purchase fresh press, books, travel accessories, electronics (chargers, headphones), New York-themed souvenirs, and snacks.
• Duty Free: A small duty-free shopping area sometimes opens for international flight passengers, but the assortment and opening hours depend on the flight schedule.

Connectivity and Work

The airport is well-adapted for those who need to stay connected.

• Wi-Fi: Free and unlimited internet access is provided throughout the terminal. The network is usually named _SWF Free WiFi.
• Gadget Charging: Seats with built-in sockets and USB ports, as well as separate charging stations, are installed in the waiting areas at the gates, allowing you to work comfortably with a laptop or phone.

VIP Lounges and Business Services

An important feature of Stewart: there are no dedicated airline VIP lounges or Priority Pass / LoungeKey lounges here. Since passenger traffic is low and waiting areas are spacious and quiet, there is usually no urgent need for a separate lounge. Conference rooms inside the "clean zone" are also absent.

Finance and Medical Assistance

• ATMs: Located in public access zones and after security control.
• Currency Exchange: Currency exchange points may operate with a limited schedule, oriented towards international flights. It is recommended to have the necessary amount in US dollars beforehand or use cards.
• Medical: There is no full clinic in the terminal, but defibrillators (AED) and first aid kits are available. In case of feeling unwell, you should immediately contact airport staff or police, who will call medics.

Passengers with Children

The airport is friendly to family travellers. Thanks to the absence of crowds, keeping an eye on children here is much easier than at JFK.

• For mothers with infants, special nursing pods (Mamava pods) are provided. These are separate, lockable capsules where you can feed a baby or express milk in silence and privacy. They are equipped with comfortable seats and power outlets.
• Restrooms have diaper changing tables.

Accessible Environment

The terminal fully complies with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements.

• The terminal is single-level in the departure zone or equipped with lifts/ramps, eliminating problems with stairs.
• Restrooms are equipped for passengers in wheelchairs.
• Escort service is available upon prior request through your airline (it is recommended to order the service at least 48 hours before departure).

Hotels Near the Airport

There are no hotels inside the terminal itself, but several hotels are located within a 1–3 km radius, many of which offer free shuttles:

• Homewood Suites by Hilton Newburgh-Stewart Airport — located practically on the airport territory, one of the most convenient options.
• Courtyard by Marriott Newburgh Stewart Airport — located a few minutes' drive away.
• Days Inn by Wyndham Newburgh WestPoint/Stewart Intl Airport — a budget option nearby.

Dining at the Airport: Where to Snack Before Departure

The gastronomic scene at Stewart International Airport (SWF) fully corresponds to its concept of "fast and fuss-free". Since the terminal is compact, there are no huge food courts or fine dining restaurants here. Passengers should be prepared for a limited selection of establishments, oriented primarily towards quick snacks and coffee to go.

It is important to remember: most food outlets are located in the "clean zone" (Airside), that is, after passing security control. Opportunities to refresh yourself in the general zone (Landside) are minimal.

Main Establishments and Menus

Several key points operate inside the terminal where you can satisfy your hunger:

• Euro Café: This is the main establishment of the airport, located in the departure hall (Airside), near the gates. It operates as a café-bistro.
  What to try: They serve hot panini sandwiches, classic American burgers, pizza, and fresh pastries. Seasonal soups can often be found on the menu. For those wishing to relax before their flight, a selection of beverages is available.
• Hudson News (Hudson Group): A traditional shop for American airports, also located in the departure zone.
  Assortment: An ideal place to buy snacks for the road: crisps, chocolate, nuts, bottled water, and soft drinks. You can also find ready-made packaged sandwiches and yoghurts here for those in a rush.

Dietary Catering and Special Requests

Due to the small size of the airport, the choice of specialized food here is limited. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them.

• Vegetarians: Cheese pizza ("Margherita"), salads, and pastries are usually available at Euro Café. Fruit cups can be found at kiosks.
• Vegans: The choice comes down to simple green salads (without dressing or with oil), fruits, nuts, and crisps. Hot vegan dishes may not be available.
• Gluten-Free Food: Hudson News shops sell gluten-free snacks (popcorn, some types of bars), but full gluten-free meals may not be available in the café.
• Halal and Kosher: Specialized certified kitchens are absent. It is recommended to choose neutral dishes or vegetarian options.

Prices and Opening Hours

Pricing at Stewart is typical for New York region airports — slightly above average, but not exorbitant.

• Average Bill: A light snack with coffee will cost $10–$15. A more substantial lunch with a hot dish and a drink will cost about $20–$25 per person.
• Opening Hours: The schedule of Euro Café and shops is synchronized with the departure schedule. Outlets open approximately 90 minutes before the first morning flight and close after the departure of the last plane. If your flight is delayed, the café usually continues to operate until passengers board.

Expert Recommendations

To make your experience travelling through SWF as comfortable as possible, use the following tips:

For a full lunch: The best solution is to eat before arriving at the airport. The cities of Newburgh and Beacon, located a 15–20 minute drive away, are famous for their excellent restaurants on the Hudson waterfront. There you can enjoy quality local cuisine in a calm setting.

For a quick snack: If you are already at the airport, go through security (TSA) and head straight to Euro Café. Queues there are small, and you will have time to snack on a hot panini 15–20 minutes before boarding.

Water: Do not forget that an empty reusable bottle can be carried through security and filled at drinking fountains in the departure zone (Airside), which will save you about $4–5.

Useful Tips for Travellers

Stewart International Airport (SWF) is famous for its friendly atmosphere and lack of stress, but even here, knowing small tricks will help make your trip flawless. Here are some recommendations from experts that will be useful when planning your flight.

1. Optimal Arrival Time

Although Stewart does not suffer from congestion like JFK, it is not worth risking it.

• For domestic flights: Arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is enough to check in luggage and pass through security without rushing.
• For international flights: It is recommended to arrive 2.5–3 hours in advance. Despite fast service, document verification procedures may take time, especially if a full flight is departing (for example, Play flights to Europe).

2. Check-in and Security Control

The standard US security system TSA (Transport Security Administration) operates at the airport.

• Documents at hand: Keep your passport and boarding pass ready for checking before approaching the officer.
• Shoes and Electronics: Be prepared to remove shoes, belts, and light outerwear. Laptops and large tablets must be placed in a separate tray.
• TSA PreCheck: If you have a subscription to this programme, you will be able to pass through expedited screening without removing shoes or taking out liquids. The PreCheck line at Stewart is operational, but the schedule may vary.

3. Choosing a Seat on the Plane

Flying into or out of Stewart is a great opportunity to enjoy the views.

• Window Seat: We strongly recommend choosing a seat by the window. During takeoff and landing, stunning views of the winding Hudson River, green hills, and picturesque bridges open up. In autumn, when the foliage changes colour, this view becomes particularly breathtaking.
• Right or Left Side? If you are flying towards New York from the north, seats on the left side often provide a better view of the river.

4. Hand Luggage: What is Allowed and Prohibited

Rules for carrying liquids here are as strict as in all US airports (the 3-1-1 rule):

• Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz).
• All containers must fit into one transparent resealable plastic bag with a volume of 1 litre.
• Electronics: Power Banks and lithium batteries can only be carried in hand luggage. Checking them in luggage is prohibited for fire safety reasons.

5. Recommendations for Transfer Passengers

Important: Stewart is not a transit hub. Most flights here are direct ("point-to-point").

• If you have a transfer involving a change of airport (for example, arrival at Stewart, and departure from JFK or Newark), allocate at least 4–5 hours for the connection, or better yet — a whole day. The road between airports can take from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic, plus time for new security procedures. There are no direct shuttles between airports; you will have to travel via Manhattan.

6. Customs Control (for International Flights)

Upon arrival from abroad, you will pass through the CBP (Customs and Border Protection) zone.

• Declaration: Honestly declare imported food products. The import of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and seeds into the USA is strictly restricted. Violation may result in a fine starting from $300.
• Cash: If you are importing more than $10,000 in cash (per family/group), it must be declared.

7. How to Save Time and Money

• Water: Do not buy water before security — it will have to be thrown away. Take an empty reusable bottle with you and fill it for free at drinking fountains in the "clean zone" (near the restrooms).
• Transfer: The most cost-effective way to get to New York is the Stewart Airport Express bus (about $25). A taxi will cost 8–10 times more. It is better to buy bus tickets online in advance to guarantee yourself a seat.
• Food to Go: Prices at the airport are higher than in the city. A couple of sandwiches and snacks purchased at a regular supermarket will help save $20–30 per family.

8. What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Since the terminal is small, entertainment options are few.

• Download Content in Advance: Download films, music, or books to your devices while still at home or in the hotel. Wi-Fi is available at the airport, but speed may drop with large crowds.
• Airline App: Install your carrier's app. Often notifications about flight rescheduling or gate changes arrive there faster than they appear on the board.
• Stay Calm: Staff at Stewart are usually more responsive than at major hubs. If a flight is delayed, a polite request to an employee at the counter will help find an alternative solution faster.